Industrial chic makes its way to your backyard! I think Lowe’s Industrial Birdhouse is an interesting use of industrial building materials to make a birdhouse. My only question is, would a bird would really make its nest in something so open? I only ask because most traditional birdhouses are a box with a rather small opening — this is quite different. Maybe it depends on the type of bird, and where it is hung.
Are there any birdwatchers out there that know the answer?
[via Craftgawker]More:

Most birdhouses are built for cavity-nesters, or birds that would usually build their nest in a hole in a building or (often dead) tree. Since there are less standing dead trees than there once were, thanks to people not liking them falling on their houses, birdhouses help provide more habitat for those birds, like kestrels, bluebirds, swallows, chickadees, and wrens. Other birds prefer to nest on platforms, whether big (like osprey) or small (like robins and jays.) So… maybe? It might be a good platform, but I’m not sure, especially considering how unprotected it is-usually built platforms have at least one side solid.

MarvaJo

I went to the Lowe’s site and there is a disclaimer that this birdhouse is for decorative purposes only.

Lisa

I’m sorry, but that thing is an eyesore. I’m a huge bird fan and make my own houses and feeders, so I’m always looking for creative and unique ways to bring more birds to my yard. This thing not only wouldn’t work with the birds, but it is ugly. Just my two cents!

Sarah

I really like the way this looks although I do agree that it isn’t terribly useful in its present construction.
I think some thin luan squares with cotton batting sandwiched in the center for walls would still look industrial. The outside luan would need some marine varnish of course.
I would also replace the bolt perch with wood in areas where the temp drops below freezing. I think a branch in a natural state would be a nice contrast to the overall design.
I think I will try and knock out a more bird-friendly version.

Laura

Thanks for your comments, everyone! “Decorative purposes only,” huh? I can’t tell if that’s legalese they are required to put in to avoid lawsuits, or if it really isn’t meant to be used by birds. If the project is not meant to be utilized by real birds, then it’s just silly.

Kathryn

I have built custom bird houses for years and no most song bird nesting birds would not choose that house.